CAR: Presidential guards shoot at UN peacekeepers in Bangui, Nov. 1, injuring 10

Event

Presidential guards reportedly shot at UN peacekeepers traveling by bus near the presidential residence in Bangui, Nov. 1. The UN personnel were traveling from Bangui M'Poko International Airport (BGF) to the UN station in Bangui. At least ten peacekeepers were injured in the incident. One bystander was also killed. The reason behind the shooting remains unclear as of Nov. 2; the government denied the claim.

Context

The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) maintains around 12,000 troops in the CAR. The mission started in 2013. The Security Council is expected to extend MINUSCA's mandate by another year when it expires Nov. 15.

Relations between the government and the MINUSCA have deteriorated over the past years over a UN arms embargo and the government's use of Russian security personnel. The UN has accused the government of obstruction of peacekeeping patrols, detention of staff members, and searches of the residences of UN personnel.

Advice

Avoid travel at night and undertake all travel outside of urban centers in convoy and following a full security review of the route. Liaise with trusted sources on the status of routes before departure. Maintain regular contact with diplomatic representations.